The University of Kentucky College of Medicine has launched a new Student Advisory Board (SAB) to ensure student voices are not only heard but valued in shaping the medical education experience. The board brings together student representatives from all campuses — Lexington, Bowling Green, Northern Kentucky, and the Rural Physician Leadership Program in Morehead — creating a welcoming space for open dialogue and collaboration between learners and leadership in the Office of Medical Education (OME).
The SAB held its first meeting in August, focusing on issues that matter deeply to students, such as transparency and communication, academic success initiatives, curriculum, and student wellness. These conversations reflect the college’s commitment to understanding the realities of student life and finding ways to help learners thrive.
“This board is really about finding ways of better understanding and positively impacting the student experience,” said Chris Lakes, EdD, associate dean for student affairs. “Everyone in our office is working hard to create outstanding programs and opportunities for students, and the Student Advisory Board provides a great platform for us to hear from students about how those initiatives are being received and discuss new approaches and ideas in collaboration with students.”
Students who serve on the SAB take on a meaningful leadership role, advocating for their peers and strengthening connections across campuses. Their insights, shaped by diverse experiences and training environments, provide a fuller picture of what medical students need to succeed.
To help ensure student perspectives are thoughtfully heard and represented, the SAB is co-chaired by a member of the OME leadership team and a student representative. This year’s co-chairs are Dr. Lakes and Chloe Embry, a third-year medical student at the Lexington Campus.
“I believe feedback is valuable in making positive changes for student well-being and satisfaction,” said Embry. “I hope that throughout this year, the SAB will help students feel like their feedback is appreciated and being used to create and shape changes for the overall benefit of students.”
The launch of the SAB demonstrates the college’s ongoing commitment to creating an environment where students are supported not only as future physicians but as individuals. As the board continues its work this year, its members will play a vital role in guiding conversations and initiatives that build a stronger, more connected community for all learners.
“Our hope is that this board becomes a trusted voice for students and an important conduit between administrators and the student body,” said Dr. Lakes.